Molly Coleman, Ward 4 Councilmember, ward4@ci.stpaul.mn.us
Jenne Nelson, Legislative Aide, jenne.nelson@ci.stpaul.mn.us
Kristin Koziol, Executive Assistant, kristin.koziol@ci.stpaul.mn.us
Kaitlynn Fuller, Communications Intern, kaitlynn.fuller@ci.stpaul.mn.us
We are so excited that the Hamline Midway Library Grand Opening is almost here! To learn more about what’s to come with the library, our Comms Intern Kaitlynn Fuller chatted with two Saint Paul Public Library (SPPL) staff members, Stacy Opitiz (Library Marketing and Comms Manager) and Marika Staloch (Library Project Manager). Opitz and Staloch described the many exciting features of the new library, such as the incorporation of local artists, nods to the history of the library, sustainability features, as well as safety considerations.
Five local artists contributed four public artworks that will be displayed at the new library. All four art pieces include references to a theme of pollination--- an important priority SPPL heard from the community. Community feedback was also weighed heavily in the selection of the five artists, as a panel of residents and library staff made the final decisions. Artists Kelsi Sharp, Lucy Michell, Rock “CYFI” Martinez, George “EWOK” Thompson, and Shea Maze were selected and are bringing a diverse array of art to the library. Art pieces include a children’s area 3D installation, custom designed bike racks, an exterior mural, and an interior wall art installation. To learn more about these artists and art pieces, you can read SPPL’s article here: https://sppl.org/blogs/post/ha-artists/.
Preserving history was also an important component in the design of the new library. There was both the literal preservation of materials from the past library as well as a more figurative preservation of some of the past library’s most charming features. Pieces of the past library’s entryway archway were preserved and pieced back together to create the entryway to one of the library’s meeting spaces. Bricks were also preserved and combined with new bricks to create a lining for the archway. The wooden proscenium from the past library’s stage was preserved and now serves as an archway to the library’s large meeting room.
The new library will also have a fireplace as a nod to the past library. Staloch mentioned that the past library’s fireplace was an unusual feature that they wanted to bring back, but in a more sustainable way. The new fireplace will be a vapor flame fireplace that puts off warmth and a glow without burning fossil fuels. Another homage to the past library comes from archived blueprints that depicted an argyle, diamond shaped brick pattern which was supposed to be on the exterior of the past library but did not materialize due to budget constraints. With the new library, they were able to recreate this blueprint in the exterior design.
As previously referenced, sustainability was considered in every part of the new library’s construction. Some of building’s new energy and environmental-conscious features include a geothermal heating and cooling system, a rooftop solar array, a white roof to reduce the urban heat bubble, advanced stormwater collection, all perennial pollinator plants (no mowing required!), bird safe glass, minimal artificial light use, and zero fossil fuel usage. All of these features combine to create a library that doesn’t only follow city-required environmental protocol, but rather a library that sets a gold-star example for sustainable architecture.
Safety is an important concern when it comes to public spaces, especially libraries. Opitz and Staloch described the features of the new library that contribute to its safety. These features include a single-level design with strong sightlines across the building, bathrooms that are in-sight of staff, and a full-time safety specialist. With these precautions in place, the library is sure to be a safe space for the community.
When asked about what they are most excited about regarding the new library, Staloch described how connected to the community the building feels. Staloch recalled when the plastic was removed from the windows of the new building, “I could see Ginkgo and the Flying Pig, and I was like it really feels like the library is part of the community.”
Opitz agreed with this sentiment and emphasized looking forward to finally welcoming the community into the new space. Opitz explained, “I'm really excited for our patrons and residents in the area to experience the art on the outside and the inside of the building. I'm so interested to see what they see, what they interpret. And our hope is that it reflects the values of the library, but more so reflects the identity and the culture and the vibrancy of the neighborhood.”
At the end of the interview, Opitz expressed her gratitude toward the community and the input they gave throughout the process. She said, “We're grateful to residents and neighbors in the area for working with us to build the vision for this library--- for their patience as we moved through the journey that we have been under in building this library. And we're so excited to welcome residents and neighbors into their library.” Opitz also explained that library staff will be looking for community feedback on what programming they would like to see at the library. In-person suggestions and emails are always welcome.
We would love to see you at the Hamline Midway Library Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, July 18th, from 10:30 am - 2:30 pm. There will be a chance to explore the new space, plenty of activities, time to gather with neighbors, and ice cream! The library’s address is 1558 W Minnehaha Ave. See you there!
 STAR House (Strength, Time and Resilience) is the only non-profit crisis nursery in Ramsey County, serving children aged 0-6 and their families. STAR House provides a free, safe, and nurturing environment for young children to stay while their family stabilizes during a crisis. STAR House experienced a flood last year, resulting in their temporary closure. Now, STAR House has a new home in the Midway neighborhood!
STAR House will be hosting a Community & Family Grand Reopening Party on Sunday, August 2nd, from 1-4 pm. There will be kid-friendly activities, a tour of the house, and a chance to meet the volunteers that make STAR House possible.
For the privacy and safety of the children and families STAR House supports, the address will be provided upon registration. To register, email rsvp@starhousemn.org.
To learn more about STAR House, visit https://starhousemn.org/
 Senior Commander Murphy delivering SPPD's presentation.
In recent months, several City Council offices have received inquiries and concerns from constituents about Flock cameras, which are a type of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR), and their use in Saint Paul. Questions range from the intended purpose and use of the cameras, who can access their data, data destruction practices, and more. To help the public get answers to these questions and to speak more broadly about how technology with camera capabilities is being used by the Saint Paul Police Department (SPPD), Councilmember Coleman and Councilmember Bowie (Vice Chair and Chair of the Council’s Public Safety Committee, respectively) organized two informative presentations on Wednesday, June 24th, one from SPPD and one from ACLU-MN. (Watch the full meeting here.)
SPPD presenters Deputy Chief Kurt Hallstrom and Senior Commander Ryan Murphy explained SPPD’s use of Body-Worn Cameras (BWC), Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV), Trailer Cameras, License Plate Recognition (ALPR or LPR), and Docked Drones or Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), with an emphasis on ALPR and drones. In their presentation, we heard:
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Flock cameras are a specific vendor of LPR technology. Saint Paul has two Flock cameras used by SPPD. Flock camera data is only used for open cases and is not shared outside of Minnesota or with federal law enforcement. ALPR is only used for specific public safety and investigative purposes--- there must be a specific reason for each plate to be searched that corroborates with other evidence.
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Drones are being used in the SPPD to be deployed for 911 calls. These drones do not replace officers. They instead provide a faster response to gather initial evidence before the officer arrives. These drones are under trained pilot control and do not record below the device as they travel to the crime scene. Drones are also not used for general surveillance. If any ALPR or drone recordings are not deemed as evidence, the recordings are deleted.
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Deputy Chief Hallstrom and Senior Commander Murphy maintained that SPPD is committed to lawful purpose, limited use, trained operators, documented actions, audits, public transparency, corrective action when necessary, and safety and constitutional rights existing together. To that end, SPPD has guardrails in place to ensure technology is not misused, such as SPPD policy, controls, regular audits, and specific officer training related to technology use. Use of ALPRs and drones are also regulated by state statute (Minnesota Statutes 13.824 and 626.19).
The meeting’s second presentation came from John Boehler, Policy Director at ACLU-MN. Director Boehler presented on potential municipal regulations on Automated License Plate Readers, with an emphasis on Flock cameras. He explained that Flock also provides cameras to private entities, such as retail stores. These private entities are not regulated in how they are allowed to use Flock cameras.
In response to resident concerns that Flock cameras could be used for immigration enforcement, Boehler reported that Flock, as a company, has maintained that they do not have a contract with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). However, law enforcement agencies that use Flock cameras and participate in the federal 287g program, which allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deputize local law enforcement agents to act as federal immigration agents, can share this data with DHS. There are roughly 2,000 such law enforcement agencies nationwide and 10 in Minnesota.
Specific to Saint Paul, ACLU-MN has requested data from SPPD regarding the stated reasons that SPPD conducted ALPR searches this year, as this information had been previously redacted in an earlier data request. ACLU-MN also shared the actions taken by other cities in response to concerns about ALPRs, such as rejecting or removing ALPRs, utilizing transparency portals, and prohibiting access from out-of-state and collaborating agencies. ACLU-MN is also monitoring SPPD’s use of drones and the deployment standards, data retention, and accountability measures put into place by the department.
SPPD, the ACLU, and the Council agreed that the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office was missing from this discussion, as there are 11 Flock cameras in Ramsey County. There are follow-ups planned with that office to hear how they are approaching this public safety concern.
 Heather Worthington delivering her presentation on economic development and vitality in Saint Paul.
On Wednesday, June 10th, the Council’s Policy Committee heard a presentation from Heather Worthington, the Principal and Chief Operating Officer of Urban3, about the economic development and vitality of Saint Paul. (Watch the full meeting here.) In the presentation, she described the concept of “value per acre,” which measures how valuable a parcel a land is per the space it takes up. She covered what types of parcels have high value per acre, such as mixed-use buildings and multifamily residentials. While other types of parcels, such as malls or big box stores, have lower value per acre. She also discussed Saint Paul/Ramsey County’s unique circumstance of having a large amount of exempt land that cannot be taxed while emphasizing that this doesn’t mean that Saint Paul can’t take advantage of the land it does have. To use land wisely, Worthington recommends attempting to replicate valuable parcels, knowing where the city’s assets are, working with municipal partners, and regulating land carefully. To learn more about Urban3 and the work they do, visit https://www.urbanthree.com/
The weather is heating up, and it is important to stay cool and safe. Below are some resources regarding cooling centers, heat risk forecasts, and other tips related to extreme heat.
It can be extremely helpful to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, as well as what to do in the case of these emergencies. Information can be found in the graphic above and it also listed below.
Heat exhaustion can develop from exposure to heat or working/exercising in it.
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Muscle cramps, fatigue, or weakness
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Move to a cool, shaded place
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Remove all clothing possible
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Use cool cloths, a cool bath, or a cool shower to lower body temperature
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Fan wet skin to speed cooling.
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Drink cool water or an electrolyte solution
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Call 911 if symptoms worsen, last more than an hour, or if there is chest pain or shortness of breath
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It can develop quickly when working or exercising in heat (exertional heat stroke) or gradually over a few days of prolonged heat (classic heat stroke).
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Headache, nausea, or vomiting
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Dizzy or loss of consciousness
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Irritability, confusion, agitation, slurred speech, or aggression
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Unable to maintain balance
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Classic heat stroke: No sweating, hot (maybe flushed) skin
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Exertional heat stroke: Sweating
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Cool person down as fast as possible
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Use cold, wet towels or ice packs on their head, neck, armpits, groin, and skin, or put them in cold water
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Fan wet skin to speed cooling
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Stay with them to monitor breathing and watch for seizures
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Do not give them anything to drink
Did you know that Saint Paul has its very own carshare program? HOURCAR operates Evie Carshare— those adorable white electric vehicles with green and blue decals you see all over town. And the best part? They’re yours to use whenever you need them!
Why deal with the costs and headaches of car ownership like gas, insurance, and maintenance? With Evie, you get the freedom of a car without the burden. The added benefit is that our all-electric Evie fleet makes transportation easier for the community without giving off harmful emissions.
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Simple & Flexible: Evies are “free-floating,” meaning they work just like a shared scooter or bike. Use the app to find and unlock a car, drive within the home area (most of Saint Paul and Minneapolis), and drop it off when you're done.
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Affordable: With a $7 monthly membership, a trip in an Evie costs less than a ride-share like Uber or Lyft.
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Easy to Start: All you need is a valid driver’s license in good standing. Apply today and be approved by the weekend.
Whether it’s a quick grocery run or a trip across town, HOURCAR is YOURCAR. Ready to ride? Join the network today at hourcar.org.
Housing Rental/Emergency Assistance Resources
If you need help paying help for rent, mortgage, utilities or car repairs, contact Ramsey County Emergency Assistance at (651) 266-4884.
Renters’ Rights in Eviction if you were Detained or Afraid to Leave your Home
City of Saint Paul Emergency Rent Assistance: The Emergency Rental Assistance Program offers support to renter households in Saint Paul facing a pending eviction due to unforeseen circumstances when other assistance options are unavailable. Eligible households may receive a one-time payment of up to $3,500 for late rent and associated fees, paid directly to the landlord. Residents are only eligible for funding once a year.
To learn more, visit our website or contact staff by phone or via email:
The following resources may also be able to offer additional help with rental assistance:
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United Way’s 211 Line (2-1-1), this line will get you started with Ramsey County services.
Other Community Resources
Keystone Community Food Center: Visit the food center at 1800 University Ave W. No appointment or advanced registration is required. Food shelf participants are served on a first come, first served basis during the hours listed below. Please call 651-917-3792 if you have any questions.
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Monday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
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Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
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Wednesday: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. & 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
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Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
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Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
MN Department of Children, Youth, and Families is tracking federal actions that may affect programs serving Minnesota children and families. Visit the DCYF site to see updates.
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On Friday, July 10th, from 5:30-8 pm, the Como Community Council will host their annual Ice Cream Social. There will be free ice cream, live music, meet-and-greets with neighborhood organizations, and activities for kids. The event is at the Streetcar Station in Como Park, 1224 Lexington Pkwy N. Parking is limited, so they encourage community members to walk, bike, roll, carpool, or take public transportation. More information can be found here: https://district10comopark.org/icecreamsocial/ |
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On Thursday, July 16th, from 3-7 pm, the MN Zero Waste Coalition and Eureka Recycling are hosting the 2026 Minnesota Zero Waste Festival. Join for an afternoon of free food, music, hands on activities, and inspiring conversations about building a Zero Waste Minnesota. The event will take place at the Como Midway Picnic Pavilion, 1199 Midway Pkwy. RSVPs are appreciated. RSVP here
To learn more, visit https://mnzerowastecoalition.org/zwf2026
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Saturday, July 18th, from 10:30 am - 2:30 pm is the Hamline Midway Library Grand Opening Celebration! The library is located at 1558 W Minnehaha Ave. Explore the building, discover new public art, and gather with neighbors over ice cream, music, and more. The library opens at 10 a.m. if you'd like to arrive early and get a head start exploring! There will also be coffee and pastries provided by Gingko Coffeehouse outside in the garden. Storytime is at 10:30 am and the ribbon-cutting is at 11:15 am. For the full schedule and more info, visit https://sppl.bibliocommons.com/events/6a330952c7d3cd5800611261 |
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On Saturday, July 18th, from 12-7 pm, you can celebrate the rich cultural heritage and history of the Rondo neighborhood at Rondo Days. There will be live music, food vendors, and art exhibits. The event is at the Rondo Community Library at the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, 270 N Kent St. To learn more about Rondo Days, visit https://www.rondodays.net/events-1/rondo-days-2026
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On Thursday, July 30, from 6-8 pm, join the Hamline Midway Coalition at their annual Ice Cream Social. Enjoy free ice cream from Sweet Fruci’s, live music, stilt walkers and performers, free art, games, and plenty of friendly faces from around the neighborhood. The event will take place at Hamline Park, 1564 Lafond Ave. More information can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BpLFPRF5V/ |
On Saturday, August 1st, from 11 am – 6 pm, you can check out the Rondo Block Party. It will take place at Rondo Commemorative Plaza, 820 Rondo Ave. The 4th Annual Rondo Block Party is set to be the largest celebration yet, honoring the rich legacy of the Rondo community while expanding into new areas of innovation, wellness, and engagement. The 2026 Theme is Build The Block, Partnerships In Action. For more information, visit https://rondoblockparty.com/ |
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Check out Arts on Lafond this July!
Thursday, July 9th, at 7 pm - Experimental Jazz on Lafond, Gold Minefield
Sunday, July 12th, at 6 pm - Guitar Series, Maja Radovanlija & Milena Petković
Monday, July 13th, at 6:30 pm - Soundbath with Julie Lentz
Thursday, July 16th, at 7 pm - Vanguard New Music Series, Larkspur Reed Trio
Tuesday, July 21st, at 7 pm - Soundbath with Marc Anderson
All events are hosted at Zion Community Commons, 1697 Lafond Ave.
Contact John Marboe, johncharles2@gmail.com, or Mira Kehoe, miratomkehoe@gmail.com, with inquiries.
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Get these August events on your calendar! More info to come in our social media posts and July newsletter.
Sunday, August 2nd, from 1-4 pm - STAR House Community & Family Grand Reopening Party
Thursday, August 20th, from 10:30-11:30 am - YMCA Peter J. King Family Foundation Center for Child and Family Wellbeing ribbon cutting
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